King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, spent their honeymoon at the house in 1923.
Dame Margaret Greville, the last private owner, bequeathed the house and estate to the National Trust in 1942.
The estate contains a rare, restored 1920s open-air swimming pool, which is no longer in use for swimming.
The house holds a significant collection of 17th-century Dutch paintings.
The formal rose garden was designed to be at its peak during the house party season in early summer.
The estate includes 1,400 acres of woodland, farmland, and parkland managed for wildlife conservation.
Polesden Lacey is a former Regency villa and country estate situated on the North Downs in Surrey. The house is renowned for its significant collection of fine art, including ceramics, Dutch old masters, and the famous Greville collection of jewels. It served as the home of society hostess Dame Margaret Greville, who hosted lavish parties and royal guests, including King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, who spent part of their honeymoon there. The property features 1,400 acres of estate land, including formal rose gardens and ancient woodland. The architecture underwent a major Edwardian renovation by architects Mewès and Davis to accommodate large-scale entertaining. Visitors can explore the preserved state rooms, which retain the opulence of the Edwardian era. The grounds offer extensive walking trails with views of the Surrey Hills. The estate is currently managed by the National Trust.
The terrace overlooking the formal rose garden with the villa facade in the background.
Prioritize the rose garden in mid-summer when the blooms are most abundant.
Wear footwear suitable for uneven terrain if you plan to walk the longer woodland trails.
Check the house accessibility status before visiting, as certain rooms may be closed for conservation.
Attempting to walk the entire 1,400-acre estate in a single visit without a map; focus on the garden and home loops.
The house interior may have seasonal room closures for conservation; check for potential winter schedule adjustments.
Maintain silence in the state rooms and refrain from touching the historic furniture or art collections.
